Stevie G and waccyracer I totally agree. I was unaware that the power of 10 existed until John Sear mentioned in his circular to the Oxfordshire clubs (and on the OAA website) in which he tried to dissuade clubs and members from taking part in the Oxford Half Marathon. The Power of 10 doesn't really matter to me - what I object to is the undemocratic and politically motivated intervention by the OAA in support of their friends at UK Athletics.

Through our participation we can show the petty minded objectors that we want this race to be a success.

Whatever time I achieve I will definitely write it on a piece of paper and put it in my scrap book and I might even frame it.

I am an ordinary club runner in Oxfordshire and I am delighted about the arrival of the Oxford Half Marathon. I have entered and I am thoroughly looking forward to running on September 25th. Thank you to the organisers.

It is however disappointing that the Oxfordshire Athletics Association are placing political pressure on local clubs to dissuade their member runners and marshals from taking part in the Oxford Half Marathon. John Sear Chairman of the OAA even went as far as to state on the OAA website - " Please NOTE your times for this event might not be included by the Power of 10 statistics !"

Very democratic John!!

I am extremely disappointed with the OAA. I joined my club to train with others and take part as a club member in races and I do not want to be drawn into the political agendas of sports administrators. I know that many local runners relish the prospect of a big open half marathon in Oxford. I truly hope that the event will be a sellout with wide participation from local club runners.